Western Carolina University’s graduate studies in nursing provide students with academic and field-based experiences that lead to a Master’s of Science Degree in Nursing (MSN). The program prepares nurses for the role of nurse administrator with a focus on culturally and linguistically appropriate services.

All academic courses are taught online. Practicum placements are available in a variety of settings in or near the students' communities.  Students will complete a thesis or scholarly project and pass comprehensive exams in addition to coursework.

Degree Requirements

The MS Nurse Administrator Program requires forty to forty-one semester hours of coursework, depending on whether the thesis or project option is selected. New students are admitted for the Fall or Spring semesters. The typical course load is six to nine credit hours per semester (part time).

To learn more, read about admission and required coursework. Also see our FAQs for registered nurses returning to school and the Nurse Administration brochure.

Cost and Additional Expenses

Visit the Distance Education tuition and fee rates page or the Graduate Catalog for current cost information for graduate students.

Students accepted into the program are required to be computer literate and either own or have regular access to a computer with a CD writer and high-speed Internet access. Nurse Administration students are required to purchase a microphone and webcam for their computers. Additional expenses include the purchase of textbooks at approximately $800.00 plus per year.

Contact the School of Nursing

To learn more about how to obtain your MS(N) degree in Nurse Administration, contact Jessica Shirley, Director of Student Services at jshirley@wcu.edu or 828-670-8810 ext 247.